Letter to Y10 Parents: GCSE History Update

Dear Parents/Carers

I hope this letter finds you well. As we transition into the second GCSE History topic, I wanted to provide you with some important updates regarding the GCSE History curriculum for our Year 10 students.

Following the conclusion of their study on Early Elizabethan England, our students have begun their study of medical developments on the British Sector of the Western Front. To build on the strong start that students have made, and to ensure the best outcomes at the end of Y11 for your child, we have made some important updates regarding the GCSE History curriculum and assessment structure which we wanted to make you aware of.

One notable addition is the introduction of a weekly 'blind assessment'. This independent piece of work will be evaluated by teachers, who will provide feedback to your son/daughter. This assessment model was trialled in other academies in the Trust over the last academic year, and was really successful in supporting students to develop the knowledge, independence and resilience required for the History GCSE exams.

In preparation for these assessments, students will engage in regular recall tasks during their History lessons. Additionally, they will be assigned weekly homework tasks designed to complement their learning objectives. The completion of these weekly homework assignments is crucial in ensuring your son/daughter is well-prepared for the assessments. Your support in encouraging your child to complete these revision tasks is greatly appreciated, as it significantly contributes to their academic success.

In cases where we identify that a student may not have performed to their full potential, we have implemented a structured intervention program for the following week. This intervention aims to address any gaps in knowledge or misconceptions promptly, providing students with an opportunity to improve their understanding and have a second chance to improve their performance. Should your child be invited to participate in these intervention sessions, we will notify you via text message. 

Thank you in advance for your continued support.  I believe that the support of parents and teachers working together is key to ensure successful outcomes for our students in their final exams. 

 

If you have any questions, or would like to enquire about further support for your child, please do not hesitate to contact me by email at j.guest@shafton.outwood.com. 

 

Yours faithfully,